Feb 18 • 13:18 UTC 🇺🇦 Ukraine Ukrainska Pravda

Support for Ukraine at the Olympics: Swedes chant 'Freedom', Italians 'Forza Ucraina', Latvians say 'Thank you very much!'

Ukrainian athletes receive an outpouring of support from international fans at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milan Cortina, with various nations expressing solidarity through chants and gestures.

At the XXV Winter Olympic Games in Milan Cortina 2026, Ukraine has been receiving a significant amount of international support, with spectators and locals showing their solidarity for the country. Fans from Sweden have been chanting 'Freedom', while those from Italy and Latvia have joined in with their own supportive phrases, such as 'Forza Ucraina' and 'Duzhe diakuiemo!', which translates to 'Thank you very much!'. This show of support has highlighted a sense of unity against the backdrop of Ukraine's ongoing struggles.

The Ukrainian team's presence at the Games includes a delegation of nine journalists and three photographers, all outfitted in national Olympic gear. This traditional gesture by the National Olympic Committee of Ukraine not only brings visibility to the Ukrainian athletes but also serves as a poignant reminder of their resilience. As they navigate the events, they are routinely engaged by supporters who mistake them for official team members, leading to heartfelt interactions that include handshakes and hugs.

This report provides a snapshot of a day spent by Ukrainian journalist Leonid Veselkov, illustrating the camaraderie and support that has accompanied him and his colleagues throughout the Olympic coverage. The positive affirmations from the fans represent a significant morale booster for the Ukrainian delegation, underscoring the widespread compassion and acknowledgment of Ukraine's situation, even in a competitive sporting context.

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